5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 8/3/15

Welcome to this week's Raw preview article brought to you by Condo On The Moon. My name is Joshua Lopez and I'm the host of the Pro Wrestling Experience and I do TV Show Reports for Between The Ropes. Obviously it hasn't been the best time to be a wrestling fan over the past two months and surprisngly it has nothing to do with the product it has to do with the recent passings of Roddy Piper and Dusty Rhodes. Whether I'm writing a piece or doing a radio show my goal is to make someone's day better as a fan of wrestling and at the same time promote the good and history of the business instead of tearing it down. With that tonight's Raw is from the home of where Suplex City began. That's right the WWE is back in San Jose, California at the SAP Center (which is a great arena with good seats and AIR CONDITIONING) and watch out Michael Cole as Brock Lesnar will be back to the program. We're three weeks away from the 28th annual SummerSlam PPV and I will talk about what happen on last week's WWE Programming and what new matches can be made for SummerSlam in fact I will actually lay out a demo card for your liking and also I'll give you my thoughts on the passing of Roddy Piper.

Roddy Piper:

I wasn't born in the 1970's or 80's I'm a 90's kid and I really didn't get a full grasp of who Rowdy Roddy Piper was until I was like maybe 10 years old and I was starting full studying of the business. I always saw Piper on video packages and etc and the first time I saw Piper on TV was two occassions. The first one was of course when he got inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 and the great Piper's Pit Segment with Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania 21. The second one was on the Legends of Wrestling Roundtable program that used to be on WWE Classics On Demand. What's their to say that hasn't already been said? Piper is the personification of what a true villan in pro wrestling is supposed to be. Piper was the man and doing my research over the years Piper did alot of amazing things that go under the radar at times especially his stuff in Portland and his feud with Greg Valentine in the NWA in the early 80's.  If there wasn't Piper in 85 there's no WrestleMania and with the rate the territories were going at that time I'm not sure if wrestling would still be here. Piper was a mainstream from the business and had a underrated career outside the ring in the movies and of course when he was in on the TV Show Always Sunny in Philadelphia. I love Piper's Mania matches with Bret Hart, Adonis and Goldust. Piper's run in WCW was really good from the standpoint that he reinvented himself in way when he was feuding with the nWo in the way he was cutting his promos. Obviously being born in this generation of wrestling I always enjoyed Piper's sproadic appearances on WWE programming and there's two moments that I always remember from the Piper we saw in today's wrestling. The first one was the segment with Piper and Cena where Piper was trying to bring out the inner anger in Cena and then second one is Old School Raw in 2014 where he closes off Raw with my personal favorite wrestler CM Punk who Piper was a major influence on Punk. Piper had a charm to him and what's more important that even though he went through alot in the wrestling business he always tried to find a way to be happy and be the best father out there. I send my colodences to the Toombs family and Roddy will be missed. I loved the guy I think to me he will always be the gold standard of what a true heel is and it's unfortunate that he was decided to be taken away from us that young. Love u Piper! Thank you for everything you've done for the business and setting example for what a good man and father is and you will never be forgotten even if your out of Bubblegum high above.

1.) John Cena vs. Seth Rollins at SummerSlam? 

The John Cena/Seth Rollins US Championship Match from last week's Raw was great. Cena broke his nose and continue to fight on for another 6-7 minutes and you have to give it up to a guy like that no matter how you feel about his subjective character. A couple weeks ago I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this program because obviously it's ironic that Cena is going back for the title when the ratings haven't been earth shattering. Rollins has gone through Reigns, Ambrose, Orton, and survived Brock and still is the WWE World Heavyweight Champion and for him to go all through that and then just lose like nothing in first encounter with Cena since last year's TLC would be a major spit in a face to everything this guy has done in the past year. With that being said and just going off what i've seen in the past couple of WWE shows is that Rollins getting a win against Cena on a big stage like SummerSlam would be a major rocket booster to a title reign which I already thought it was going really good. Cena could win the title and I wouldn't been surprised or upset because he's realy had a stellar year this year when it comes to matches and his promos have been good, so Cena hasn't had a bad feud this year. With Cena nose being shattern your not going to see Cena in the ring which is unfortunate because I would have love seeing some US Open Challenges before SummerSlam and now it looks like it will be champion vs. champion at SummerSlam. I'm sure Rollins will start the show and brag about Cena nose being broken and that Cena is not entitled to another World Title Match and he's not here, so Rollins is moving on. If Rollins was to wrestle tonight I think he would fight either Roman Reigns or Cesaro. It would be interesting to see if Cena would have a cut pre-recorded promo towards Rollins, but we'll see what happens.

2.) The Beast is Back  

Brock Lesnar is back on tonight's show and I'm really looking forward to that. We've all seen Heyman cut amazing promo's especially the ones before WrestleMania 30. There's always been one stat that I don't know why someone like Heyman would continue to overlook and not bring up. That stat is the fact that The Undertaker has never beated Brock Lesnar. I'm sure Heyman will cut a cool promo tonight and then it would be distrupted by Undertaker in a cool Taker esque video package if Taker is not at Raw tonight that's just a idea we haven't seen that in a while. I would also like to know if this will be a fight or another wrestling match like at Mania 30. This match NEEDS a stipulation to it. The fans in Brooklyn will boo the match out of the building if it's just another wrestling match with 20 suplexes. This is one of the major things I'm paying attention to for tonight's show especially coming off that amazing pull apart a couple weeks ago.

3.) Steve Austin Podcast with Paige + Divas Revolution

Tonight after RAW is the return of the infamous Stone Cold Podcast on the WWE Network with special guest former Divas Champion and Tough Enough Coach the beautiful Paige. I'm really looking forward to this. Obviously for me I know about Paige's upbrining with her legendary Knight family, but I'm also interested in learning more things about her and what type of question Austin would have for her since he has admitted over the past couple weeks on his podcast that he hasn't been watching the product due to his crazy schedule with filming the next Broken Skull Challenge season. Will Austin bring up AJ Lee? What's Austin thoughts on the Diva uprising in the WWE and will Austin ask Paige about her experience on Tough Enough this season. I love Paige, so it will be alot of fun covering this podcast tonight. As far as tonight is concern I think we would see Nikki Bella vs. Becky Lynch then later on that night we'll see Paige & Charlotte vs. Sasha Banks & Naomi.

4.) SummerSlam 2015 Match Card 

1.) No Holds Barred Match 
The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar w/Paul Heyman

2.) WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match 
Seth Rollins (c) vs. John Cena

3.) Fatal Four Way Match for the WWE Tag Team Championship 
Prime Time Players (c) vs. The New Day vs. Lucha Dragons vs. Los Matadores

4.) Triple Threat Match for the WWE Divas Championship 
Nikki Bella (c) vs. Paige vs. Sasha Banks

5.) Kevin Owens vs. Cesaro

6.) Randy Orton vs. Sheamus

7.) Triple Threat Match for the WWE Intercontinental Championship 
Ryback (c) vs. The Miz vs. Big Show

8.) The Wyatt Family vs. Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose


I hope you guys enjoyed this week's Raw preview. It will be nice to see the WWE pay some type of tribute to Piper on tonight's show. It's going to be a good night to honor a legend and enjoy some good wrestling.

You can follow me on Twitter it's @JoshLopezCSR

Check out my radio show this Wednesday the Pro Wrestling Experience from 11am-2pm ET on Chicagolandsportsradio.com

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 7/27/15

Welcome to this week's Monday Night Raw preview brought to you by Condo On The Moon. We're on the road to SummerSlam and despite what's going on with Mr. Boella, we're going to take the high road on that topic and give you a clear perspective on what you can see on tonight's episode of Monday Night Raw from Oklahoma City. The Lesnar & Taker program has started on a high note and both stars gave you a great demo as to what you may see on August 23rd. Lot's to get to, so let's see the five things I expect to see on tonight's WWE Raw from the home of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

1.) The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar + Paul Heyman Promo's 

There was a bit of hesitation from the fans when it came to another round of a Lesnar and Taker program, but from what I saw with the pull apart on last week's Raw, everybody is hooked. Paul Heyman planted the seeds on the background behind this feud. Paul Heyman had another great line where he said that "You can sell your soul to the devil, but your ass belongs to Brock Lesnar." I don't think there's heel or face dynamic in this program cause it remnids me alot of Rock vs. Austin at WrestleMania 17 in the fact that it's a PERSONAL ISSUE and Taker is in Austin's position where he needs to get his revenge on Lesnar and take his yard back. Both guys are not advertised for tonight's Raw which I don't have a problem with. The video above was flimed at the WWE Headquarters at Stamford, Connecticut. So when Lesnar and Taker are not Raw you can expect Paul Heyman to basically continue to sell the match to you the fans. I think it will be live via Satellite, but who knows maybe Heyman shows up in OKC tonight. It would be nice to see Heyman bring up how The Undertaker has plowed through so many legends in the wrestling business, but he's never conquered Brock Lesnar.

2.) John Cena vs. Seth Rollins "Champ vs. Champ" ?

Coming off last week's Raw it seems like Seth Rollins will be defending his WWE World Heavyweight Championship at SummerSlam against WWE United States Champion John Cena. Rollins was basically rubbing in the fans face in one of his better heel promo's that you guys doubted me and I survived Suplex City and I'm still the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. For some reason Cena came out and pull out his heel tactics whenever he wants to get the WWE Championship back. When you see this on paper you see the behind the scenes coming into this storyline because it's known that ratings haven't been that high over the past couple of months and people may assume that the WWE is blaming Rollins for that, but you can't blame him because I think he's been one of the best heel champions since CM Punk. From this standpoint I think Cena has had one of the best year's of his career and I think he and Rollins can have a great match, but my thing is every since WrestleMania has talked about how the US Championship is the symbol of excellence. Now Cena want's the WWE Title? Yea I guess it's not a bad marketing idea to have a Champion vs. Champion match at SummerSlam, but would you want Rollins title reign to end in a span of a month to John Cena? I think tonight we may see another promo where Cena tries to act like he's above Rollins. As far as matches are concern I think we'll see Seth Rollins vs. Cesaro and John Cena will have another US Open Challenge.

3.) What's next for Kevin Owens? 

If you didn't see last week's SmackDown you missed a good one. Let me say this and I know there's alot of people who think that the WWE is going to bury Kevin Owens because he lost a feud to John Cena. I just don't see it that way. He's not a jobber and yea he'll do mid-card stuff for awhile, but I don't think Owens should be in the main event scene already. Owens is going to be there for a long time, so why would you want him to be in the main event of every show and WrestleMania in his first year on the main roster. On SmackDown the seeds were planted for the Kevin Owens/Cesaro match. Cesaro basically was talking about how he always deliver and Owens made fun of him and then Cesaro reminded everybody how basically Kevin walks out of all of his matches. Owens laid out Cesaro after his match with Seth Rollins. I think this feud is great for both guys and we'll need to see more character development with both guys, I mean we all know that Cesaro and Owens are great wrestlers, but what's their next for their characters? I do think Owens and Cesaro will brawl tonight and it will be official that Owens will take on Cesaro at SummerSlam.

4.) SummerSlam Mid-Card Matches 

I think we'll see the three way match for the Intercontinental Championship with Ryback, Big Show and Miz. I think we'll see one more match with The New Day and Prime Time Players and New Day will continue to interfere in the PTP matches until they get another opportunity at the tag straps. Even then maybe tonight we'll see New Day vs. Lucha Dragons in a Number One Contender's Match. Stardust vs. Neville is happening and I'm loving the comic book stuff they are doing with this storyline. I think we may see the mixed tag team match with Dolph Ziggler & Lana vs. Rusev & Summer Rae. Orton/Sheamus? Maybe? I think tonight could be a good implication on what other matches will be on SummerSlam besides Taker/Lesnar and Cena/Rollins. I mean hell we can see Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose vs. The Wyatt Family in a No DQ Match. Lot's of questions and excited to see what they bring to the table tonight.


5.) Divas Running Wild 

The Divas revolution segments have been dominating WWE programming over the past couple of weeks. I think for tonight it would be nice to see Paige vs. Sasha Banks and then later on the show if they want to do another divas match you can do The Bella Twins vs. Charlotte & Becky Lynch. I think it's also important to establish at least where we going as far as the Divas Championship is concern. I know that Nikki has been banged up for awhile, but we'll need to know if Nikki will be defending her championship at the second biggest show of the year.

Thanks for checking out this week's Raw preview. I hope you enjoyed it. Enjoy Raw

You can follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

Check out my radio show the Pro Wrestling Experience every Wednesdays from 11am-2pm ET on Chicagolandsportsradio.com.

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 6/22/15

Welcome to this week's WWE Monday Night Raw preview brought to you by Condo On The Moon. The road to WWE Battleground makes a pit stop in Indianapolis, Indiana for Monday Night Raw at the Bankers Life Field House. Last week in WWE programming we found out that Seth Rollins will defend the WWE World Heavyweight Title against Brock Lesnar at Battleground, Kevin Owens destroy MGK, and Bray Wyatt begins the mind games with Roman Reigns. We're just about 4 weeks away from the third annual Battleground PPV in St. Louis, Missiouri. Here's five things you can expect to see on tonight's edition of WWE Monday Night Raw.

1.) Is Seth Rollins title reign coming to an end?  

The future of the WWE Seth Rollins, current WWE World Heavyweight Champion, has had a big chip on his shoulder since the disbanding of The Shield. Rollins was "Plan B" for The Authority and now Rollins is on his own. In a promo segment with The Authority last week on Raw, Triple H stated that its time to put the pressure on Rollins and at the upcoming Battleground PPV, Rollins will be putting his world title on the line against a raging "Beast" Brock Lesnar who made his return to WWE Programming last week. As it seems like the entire world is against Seth Rollins. How will Rollins carry himself over these next couple of weeks as he prepares for the biggest match of his career? In the video above you'll see a promo from SmackDown where Rollins states that this is the match he wants. There's no doubt Seth Rollins is a confident World Champion and I encourage that, but how can anybody believe that Rollins can dethrone the Beast? Rollins stole the WWE World Title at WrestleMania and has squeezed out victories over the past three months. It seems like the Authority are in good graces with Paul Heyman and Brock Lesnar after Stephanie suspended Brock on the Raw after Mania. I think for tonight we'll see the first of a few promo battles between Rollins and Heyman. Rollins will subtly convince the authority to be on his side. If Rollins wrestling tonight I think he has a match with Kane.

2.) Owens vs. Cena III?

I put a question mark next to the title of this point because what would you do with the John Cena and Kevin Owens feud? Owens is on a roll and it doesn't matter what show he's on, Kevin Owens is seemingly un beatable at this point. Owens on Monday destroyed Dolph Ziggler and MGK and declared that he want's a rematch with John Cena and not just any type of rematch, this time he wants the United States Championship on the line. On NXT Owens gets in a massive brawl with Samoa Joe. Owens defeated Cesaro in a good back and forth match on SmackDown. In a couple of weeks Owens will be defending the NXT Championship against Finn Balor on the July 4th Special on the WWE Network from Tokyo, Japan. For tonight's Raw I think we'll see John Cena return after taking a week of television off. I think Owens and Cena will have another promo segment which will lead to Owens laying out Cena to the point he'll won't be able to compete at Battleground or we'll see the Authority suspend Owens for a month due to his actions to not only John Cena, MGK, but maybe Owens lays out an announcer on Raw tonight.

3.) Raw Matches 

I'm going to put out a list of matches that we'll possibly see in this three hour Raw from Indianapolis.

1.) Seth Rollins vs. Cesaro

2.) Ryback vs. The Miz w/Big Show on Commentary

3.) Darren Young w/Titus O'Neil vs. Kofi Kingston w/The New Day

4.) Dolph Ziggler vs. Bo Dallas

5.) Sheamus & Kane vs. Roman Reigns & Dean Ambrose

6.) King Barrett vs. Neville w/R-Truth on Commentary

7.) Alicia Fox vs. Paige

8.) Kevin Owens vs. Randy Orton


4.) WWE Battleground Mid-Card Feuds 

I think as the weeks go by it would be good to take a big picture aspect approach in setting up the card for Battleground in four weeks. I think we can see Randy Orton and Sheamus pairing up at Battleground. I wouldn't be surprised if Dean Ambrose and Kane will meet at up at the show. Prime Time Players defend their tag team titles against The New Day. Finally in a three way match Ryback defends the IC Championship against Miz and Big Show.


5.) Roman Reigns & Bray Wyatt Feud 

I'll keep this short and sweet because I want this story to play out because it's this feud has the potential to be something we haven't seen in a longtime or ever. I love this pairing of Reigns and Wyatt because we can see major character developments with both characters over the next couple of weeks. I think for tonight we'll continue to play mind games with Reigns and continue to bring up Roman's past and his family. Reigns will be upset and I just can't wait to see what they do with Roman and Bray on Raw tonight.

Hope you guys enjoy this week's Raw preview article.

You can follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR and I'll follow you back just let me know that you seen this piece.

Make sure to check out my wrestling radio show "Pro Wrestling Experience" live every Wednesdays from 10am-1pm CT on "ChicagoLand Sports Radio" on the TuneIn Radio App and simulcast on WLGK Logik Radio on Saturdays at 5pm ET.

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 6/15/15

Hope you guys and girls had a good weekend. Welcome to this weeks Raw preview article brought to you by Condo On The Moon. We're just coming off the heels of the Money in the Bank PPV. In this piece I'll give you my thoughts on the PPV and also five things you can expect to see on tonight's Monday Night Raw from Cleveland, Ohio. Let's do this.

Money in the Bank Review: 

For the most part I thought the Columbus crowd exceeded my expectations especially with being a guy that covers just about every single WWE show the Columbus crowd tends to be one of the worst in the WWE Universe. I thought that Michael Cole and Jerry Lawler had a great outing on commentary, but JBL has to go to. He drags down every single Raw, SmackDown, PPV and etc. I thought the WWE did a phenomenal job paying tribute to the late great Dusty Rhodes with the video package and the ten bell slatue. I'm interested in seeing if they do the same thing tonight for Raw, or they'll just go on with the tribute special that will be on the WWE Network immediately after Raw. 

Maybe to a fault I look at the positive and big picture aspects of professional wrestling too much. I just never wanted to be "THAT GUY" who acts like he knows everything about the business and just being the wrestling verison of Roger Ebert. I thought the Money in the Bank Ladder was good, I was really surprised that Sheamus captured the briefcase and you know what? I don't have a problem with this. It came out of nowhere and that's what you usually expect in these MITB Matches, so just because my guy didn't win doesn't mean the match sucks. We as fans play that card way too much. I thought the Divas Championship match was good both Nikki and Paige really beat the snot out of each other. Shenangians insued in the finish, but I knew Nikki was going to retain no matter what. I thought the Ryback/Big Show match was disappointing, but it is what it is. I thought the Cena/Owens match was awesome. There's not much that needs to be said about that because the match and the storyline speaks for itself. Congrats to the Prime Time Players becoming the new Tag Team Champions more on that in our Raw preview. The main event was awesome. Overall I really enjoy the show despite JBL, but if I had to grade the show it would've been a B+ or A-. 

1.) John Cena vs. Kevin Owens Fallout 

The series is tied at 1-1 and this feud has been far more entertaining then the NBA Finals in my opinion, but hey NBA isn't a work right? ;)! I don't think Owens is "buried" lets put a end to that arguement. He's not going to become a Wyatt, a Ryback, a Rusev, etc. Say what you want about John Cena and I'm not part of Cenation, but you have to respect the guy. Owens powerbombs Cena on the ring apron after the match last night, so here's the question. How long will Cena be out? Will this feud brew over Battleground or will Cena take some time off and then we have the rubber match at SummerSlam? For tonight I can expect to see another promo between both guys unless Cena will not be on the show. By the way if your saying Owens is buried by losing to Cena last night you don't know anything about wrestling. Owens is not going to be like the other guys who were supposely "buried" by Cena because they were heels and the baby face is never supposed to beat the bad guy. 

2.) WWE Divas Title Picture + IC Title Shenangians 

Here's a scenario I have for the Divas Title Picture with WWE Battleground coming up in 5 weeks. It's time. It's time to bring up Charlotte. It all makes sense with Raw being in Cleveland, Ric Flair loves LeBron James, and if you listen to this promo. The Bellas were born this way and Charlotte is genetically superior. Bring up Charlotte you can have Paige and her team against the Bellas at Battleground and Charlotte will take the title from Nikki at SummerSlam. For the IC Title Picture I think we'll see a beginning of a three way program with Miz, Ryback and Big Show. Not sure how I feel about, but there is history between all three guys even before the PPV last night. I can see maybe Miz vs. Ryback or Big Show tonight. Maybe you can even have ShowMiz come back and take on Ryback in a handicap match. 

3.) PTP vs. The New Day 

Congrats to Titus and Darren on becoming the new WWE Tag Team Champions! With Kidd & Cesaro out of the picture with Kidd's injury and the Usos on the shelf. I think we can see a fun three month program between these two tag teams maybe the titles go back and forth, but that's not really a bad thing if done right. I expect for tonight we'll see New Day requesting a rematch for the Tag Team Championship. 

4.) Sheamus + Roman Reigns/Bray Wyatt feud, What's next for Randy Orton, Dolph Ziggler and Neville?

This point will be shorter then the most here. I think Sheamus and Randy Orton can continue their feud if they want to especially with Orton trying everything he can to get back in the WWE World Title Picture, I'm intrugied about the Bray Wyatt/Roman Reigns feud I'll keep it to that because I'm not really sure what's going to happen here and that's what's great about this upcoming feud. Wyatt does remind alot of a darker verison of Mankind and Undertaker. Yes I understand he's lost some of his feuds, but the guy is like underlying power of the Authority whenever the Authority needs someone to take the World Title away from Ambrose and Reigns or anybody else here comes Bray Wyatt. For Dolph and Neville that's the interesting question. Not always in favor with just throwing two guys together for the sake of a having great wrestling matches unless the storyline was about "Oh I'm better than you, you call yourself the Showoff, but I'm the new Sensation and I'm here to stay." 

5.) Seth Rollins & Authority Back Together 

This is out of left field and if it happens I won't gloat about it ;), but I have this thing feeling where Rollins and HHH were buddy buddy now and Rollins will celebrate with The Authority on Raw tonight in the main event segment and I think we see either Kane pick Rollins in the air and Triple H drops the thumb down and the Authority destroys Seth Rollins. I also think you can have Rollins out there and Brock comes back and ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE. Either way I think it's interesting scenarios, but also who knows does Ambrose gets his third shot at the title or does he go away for awhile? 

That's a wrap for this week's Raw preview. I hope you guys enjoy Raw. Let me know what you think about the piece on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR. 

Go Blackhawks!!!!!

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 5/25/15

Happy Memorial Day! Just as you think things in wrestling are slowing down after WrestleMania, you couldn't be more wrong. We just had Payback and the NXT Takeover Special last week. This Sunday is the Elimination Chamber on the WWE Network and coming up soon we'll be the Money in the Bank PPV! Lot's and lot's to get to and in this piece. I'll give you my thoughts on the current storylines heading towards the Elimination Chamber PPV + My predictions for the event and the five things you can expect on the go-home show for the Chamber on tonight's WWE Monday Night Raw from Nassau Coliseum in Long Island, New York.

1.) The WWE Tag Team Chamber Match 

Last week on Raw we found out the following participants that will compete in the very first tag team elimination chamber match are: The New Day, The Ascension, The Lucha Dragons, Los Matadores, The Prime Time Players and Tyson Kidd & Cesaro. If you guys missed SmackDown this past Thursday? You missed a pretty sweet four corners tag team with Los Matadores, Lucha Dragons, The Ascension and Kidd & Cesaro. This match is so intruging since it's a first of it's kind and to think about 12 people in one chamber match. ALL HELL IS GOING TO BREAK LOOSE! I think for tonight we see probably a rematch from SmackDown or we'll see a massive 12 men tag team match with The Lucha Dragons tagging up with Kidd & Cesaro + Prime Time Players vs. The New Day, Los Matadores and The Ascension. You can even do a match between the Prime Time Players and The New Day. Many options, but very interested in seeing what they do for the build up for this tag team chamber match.

2.) Vacant IC Championship Chamber Match + WWE Divas Title Feud

As we move from one chamber match to another, we move to a division that's been in a state of flux in the past two months. With Daniel Bryan relinquishing the Intercontinental Championship. Who's going to be the guy to take Bryan's spot? We know that Dolph Ziggler, Rusev, Bad News Barrett, Ryback, Sheamus and R-Truth are in this Chamber Match. One of the major angles that came out of last week's Raw was the split between Rusev and Lana and this sudden pairing of Lana & Dolph Ziggler. Obviously it seemed like a lot of people didn't like this decision, but I can't judge a whole storyline off of one week of programming. For tonights Raw I think we see three matches. Ryback vs. Bad News Barrett, Sheamus vs. Dolph Ziggler and Rusev vs. R-Truth. Or you can do Rusev vs. Ziggler then you see a tag team match with Bad News Barrett & Sheamus vs. Ryback & R-Truth. Another cool thing that happen on Raw last week was the return of Paige. We found out that at the Elimination Chamber, Nikki Bella will be defending her WWE Divas Championship in a triple threat match with Naomi and Paige. Last week on SmackDown we saw a really good divas talking segment which I felt really helped out this feud.

3.) Owens vs. Cena I 

It's been one of the biggest WWE news stories of the week! Kevin Owens made his WWE Raw "Debut" last week and laid out United States Champion John Cena. We also found out that the NXT Champion will be taking on John Cena this Sunday at the Elimination Chamber. It's not known as of now if the US Title will be on the line, so many differents ways you can go with this match. As much as it cool to see Owens be part of this show on Sunday, I'll like to remind everybody that he's not going to be part of the main roster after this show. I think this is going to be a one off appearance. Also like to remind everybody to be careful what they wish for. Owens and Cena will be a awesome match, but here's the question? Do you really think that Owens is going to beat Cena? Is John Cena "burying" a talent if Owens loses this match? Tonight's Raw is in Long Island and maybe this won't happen, but I think it's a good idea. So the US Open Challenge has been on fire these past two months and with it being at Nassau Coliseum what a better way to keep the momentum going with Zack Ryder accepting John Cena's challenge and while Ryder is walking down the steps you have Owens come out and lay out Zack Ryder! If Owens wins at the Chamber Cena will get the best of him on Raw tonight.

4.) Dean Ambrose vs. Seth Rollins 

After threatening Seth Rollins last Monday on Raw and forcing The Authority to grant him a WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match against The Architect at WWE Elimination Chamber, Dean Ambrose succumbed to the numbers game as Kane, Rollins and J&J Security brutally attacked Ambrose. Putting an exclamation point on the carnage, Rollins hit Ambrose with Triple H’s signature Pedigree. Will this feud continue after the Chamber? That remains to be seen, but with what happen on Raw and then the continued issues Roman Reigns has with the Authority. I just wouldn't be surprised if we see that Shield triple threat match quicker then anybody expected it to be. I expect the deck to obviously be stacked against Dean Ambrose, but I think it's safe to say that Rollins will be walking out champion this Sunday. If Rollins gets the best out of Ambrose then there might be a chance, but I think this match was put on the Chamber Card to appease fans give them hope that Ambrose will be the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. 

5.) WWE Chamber 2015 Predictions 

- I see the New Day somehow retaining the Tag Team Titles over the Lucha Dragons, The Ascension, Matadores, PTP and Kidd/Cesaro 

- I see Sheamus winning the IC Chamber Match.

- I see Nikki somehow retain the Divas Championship 

- I see John Cena beating Kevin Owens 

- I see Rollins once again get the best of Dean Ambrose 


I hope you guys enjoy this week's Raw preview. Enjoy your Memorial Day. Enjoy Raw and the Chamber. 

You can follow me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR 

Please check out my radio show the Pro Wrestling Experience every Wednesday from 10am-1pm CT on Chicagolandsportsradio.com 

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 4/13/15

RAW IS JERICHO!!!!!! Just kidding welcome to this week's WWE Monday Night Raw preview. I'm Joshua Lopez and I hope you guys had a tremendous weekend. Last week on Raw we found out that Daniel Bryan will defend his Intercontinental Championship against Bad News Barrett at Extreme Rules and we also found out that Randy Orton will take on Seth Rollins for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at the same particular event. This week Raw invades Europe as WWE's flagship show is in London, England. We're 13 days away from the Extreme Rules PPV which will be live on the WWE Network on Sunday April 26 from Chicago, Illinois. To remind everybody that tonight's Raw is taped, so I'm not looking at the spoilers for tonight's show, but I will give you my predictions as far as what and should happen on tonight's show.

1.) Kalisto & Neville Progression + Divas Battle Royal 

Couldn't be happier for Kalisto and Neville! They've been doing a tremendous job since coming up to the main roster. I think as the months progress we as a fanbase need to lower our expectations for these particular NXT Superstars that come up to the main roster. You had your few exceptions like The Shield or The Wyatt Family where they automatically connected to the WWE Universe and were in those major feuds right off the bat. I've had no problem with what they've been doing with Kalisto and Neville so far less is more. I think bringing the Lucha Dragons to main roster has helped the tag team division. For tonight's Raw I think we'll see Lucha Dragons vs. The New Day or The Ascension. Would it be too soon to have the Lucha Dragons go after the tag team championships at Extreme Rules? As far as Neville is concern, look if the WWE thought that Neville was going to be a joke why would he have a two segment match with the WWE Champion Seth Rollins in his second bout since coming up to the main roster? I'm just happy the guy is up on the main roster. Who cares that they changed his name, who cares that he wears a robe, it's the same guy that you saw on NXT turn up a little bit. Do I see Neville competing for the mid-card titles soon? No and I don't think that he should be fightning for those titles yet. Okay he lossed in this second bout, is he buried now? No absolutely not. As far as tonight is concern I think you can mix in Neville into some of the mid-card feuds for this next PPV. For example tonight you can see maybe Neville vs. Luke Harper and then Dean Ambrose comes back and that programs begins or you can have Neville vs. Miz. Miz can be a the great heel guy who knocks down the rookie saying you don't belong here all that jazz and then you can have Neville/Miz and Mizdow cost Miz the match. There's many different ways you can go with Neville, but for me I think it will be a double whammy to have Neville in a match that can also set up a mid-card feud for Extreme Rules. Tonight WWE is having a battle royal to determine the Number One Contender for the Diva's Championship at Extreme Rules. Last week Naomi had a rough outing in her match against The Bella Twins, but this chick can go trust me she can be a great assett to this Divas division and I think that tonight you see Naomi or Paige win the battle royal.

2.) IC Title Picture 

The talk of the wrestling world for the last couple months was can the Intercontinental Championship be brought back to prevalence? Being a kid who grew up during the Attitude Era the IC Title wasn't always the vocal point of the show, so I don't get as outraged over a mid-card title like the folks who grew up in the 80's do. I think it's interesting that Daniel Bryan is the Intercontinental Champion and now we know that he will be defending his championship against the former champion Bad News Barrett at Extreme Rules. Here's the thing Extreme Rules has always been known for the particular gimmick and stipulation type of matches. Do you see one added to this IC Title match? Sheamus has came back with a blaze of glory. This heel turn has been best for business for not only the WWE, but for Sheamus as well. Sheamus comes out each week and he talks about hating well the vanilla midgets and that he's the real man's man. I think tonight we see Sheamus vs. Daniel Bryan. I don't think that the IC Title match will change into another multiple person type of match. I think we find out that Sheamus will face Dolph Ziggler at Extreme Rules. So for tonight I think we see Bryan and Ziggler vs. Barrett and Sheamus. We'll find out whether there will be a stipulation added to the either Barrett/Bryan or Sheamus/Ziggler matches at Extreme Rules.

3.) John Cena vs. Rusev III 

So we know that the rematch is set for Extreme Rules between Rusev and John Cena. You don't have to complicate anything with this storyline it's speaks for itself. Rusev feels that he didn't lose at WrestleMania. John Cena is the fighting american champion. We got the pay per view coming up soon in Chicago which is a very important town for John Cena on many ends from a positive and a negative standpoint. When you try to figure out a stipulation for a match with these two particular superstars it becomes challenging, but i'm going throw out a couple stipulations if they happen cool if not hey at least I gave it the college try. Here's the following stipulations that I feel could be added to the John Cena/Rusev match at Extreme Rules: "I Quit", Last Man Standing, Chicago Street Fight or a Chain Match. What I do know is that this match will be a war and who knows maybe this match will have a color, but at the end of the day I don't think either guy gets negatively effected whether they win or lose this match. Tonight for the John Cena open challenge I think we see John take on actually Bad News Barrett why not. I think what's important tonight is that we see Rusev lay out John Cena and we found out what's the stipulation for that match at Extreme Rules

4.) The Authority vs. Roman Reigns & Ryback! Plus Randy Orton vs. Seth Rollins 

Raw tonight it's going to be interesting to see what the WWE does with Roman Reigns. It's been speculated that Roman may fight the Big Show at Extreme Rules in a Last Man Standing Match. I think it would be good to bring back a tag team Chicago Street Fight with Roman Reigns & Ryback vs. Kane & Big Show. As far as tonight is concern I think we see maybe Ryback vs. Big Show or Kane. I think for the Seth Rollins/Randy Orton program I think that will the Extreme Rules Match you'll see at the PPV. I think tonight on Raw we'll see maybe I'll throw this match out there Orton vs. Cesaro. Then for Seth I think maybe he takes on maybe Ryback or Dolph Ziggler. Is there any possibility that Roman Reigns get sidetracked from Bray Wyatt and you see the beginning of the Bray/Roman Reigns program? I think that would be a good swerve just in case the Authority/Reigns & Ryback match doesn't happen at Extreme Rules.

5.) Extreme Rules 2015 Match Card 

WWE is in a good position with the fact that they have a great crowd in London tonight for Raw. When you have these gimmicky type of ppv's these types of crowds help the builds for these particular ppv's. It's important to get Extreme Rules established on Raw tonight with the match card and everything. Here's a proposed lineup for the PPV with the stipulation added to the matches.

1.) The Miz vs. Mizdow

2.) Tables Match
Dean Ambrose vs. Luke Harper

3.) No Holds Barred Match for the WWE Intercontinental Championship
Daniel Bryan (c) vs. Bad News Barrett

4.) Strap Match
Sheamus vs. Dolph Ziggler

5.) Chain Match for the United States Championship
John Cena (c) vs. Rusev

6.) WWE Divas Championship Match
Nikki Bella (c) vs. Paige

7.) Chicago Street Fight Match
Kane & Big Show vs. Roman Reigns & Ryback

8.) Extreme Rules Match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship
Seth Rollins (c) vs. Randy Orton


I hope you guys enjoyed this week's Raw preview article. Don't look at spoilers it does ruin the experience of watching wrestling shows trust me I know from experience. I hope you guys enjoy the show tonight it should be a lot of fun.

You can follow me on Twitter @VoiceOfTruth94

Check out my radio show "The Pro Wrestling Experience" every Wednesday from 10am-1pm CT on Chicagolandsportsradio.com

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 3/23/15

How's thing going? Welcome to the final Raw preview before WrestleMania 31! It's been a fun ride getting to do these previews during this crazy road to WrestleMania. Alot of people say that the build towards WrestleMania has been lackluster, but I disagree because, more people are talking about this WrestleMania then they did for the 30th Anniversary of WrestleMania. Whether good or bad or indifferent people are talking and amongst all these "controversies" brings a high level on intrigued not only on tonight's Raw, but also WrestleMania this Sunday. I'll be in San Jose this weekend love meet to some of the fans of the Condo On The Moon website and podcast. Tonight on Raw we have a couple special guest since Raw is at the Staples Center tonight which should bring a interesting crowd instead of the past three go-home shows that were in Washington and Atlanta. Snoop Doog will be making a guest appearance and also ESPN and Grantland founder Bill Simmons will be calling some matches tonight. So with that here's five things to expect on the final Raw before WrestleMania. 

1.) Roman Reigns vs Brock Lesnar

 

I will be sharing the comments that Brock Lesnar made from last week's Raw. Speaking of last week's Raw, Paul Heyman once again continues to blow us away with his ability to out do himself in his promos. I've been so bored with the whole Roman Reigns bashing or whatever you want to call this backlash towards him. It is what it is the main event is set and unlike other people I'm going to give you a look as to what they can do to make this match interesting. Tonight on Raw there's supposed to be a face-to-face segment between both the champion and the challenger. I'm figuring that this will close the show tonight or at least it should, but I wouldn't be surprised if they want this segment to start off the second or third hour's of the show. Anyways, I guess one of the only problems I've had so far with the presentation of Roman Reigns since he's came back from his injury is that we've not been given a solid reason to have a emotional investment in anything Roman Reigns. What do I mean by that? Well, WWE can say "Oh look at this guy, he has the look, he's from one of the greatest families in the wrestling business" Okay I know that, but how is Roman going to make himself standout from his other family members if he's not allowed to speak for himself. You constantly see people cutting him off when he starts talking then they start putting him over and kissing his ass. I like Roman Reigns don't get me wrong I want him to succeed, but if Roman's going to be the "next guy" you have make the fans care about him and drive away the John Cena stigma that's attached to him. Tonight on Raw It shouldn't be about Reigns talking to Paul, you should see Roman talk to Brock. We'll hear what Heyman has to say that's a given and then if a brawl happens and they want to go with this Reigns can't beat Lesnar campaign, then you have Brock lay him out with a F5! Also a wild card I think if it's possible and if he's there maybe The Rock shows up on Raw, but still even then you can have Reigns sidetracked then Brock lays out The Rock afront of Reigns and that can play off to the "rumored" main event of next year's WrestleMania "Brock Lesnar vs The Rock" Tonight is very important for this feud. You want to gain the heat and anticipation for this PPV and this match alone? You have to get the crowd off their feet and WWE is lucky they have a great crowd afront of them.

2.) Randy Orton vs. Seth Rollins

I guess one of the benefits that comes with having "part-timers" associated with major matches on a WrestleMania card is that with Raw you can pay attention to feuds that usuallly wouldn't been given the time its deserved. You have one of the simplest feuds in the WWE right now and it's really interesting that the Orton & Rollins storyline has been dominating the Raw's on the road to WrestleMania. Which is cool for Rollins because he's getting more and more practice to succeed on high pressure situations especially like a main event segment when a major PPV is coming up. Last week Rollins seemed to be "dismissed" by The Authority, but that didn't last long when Rollins and Authority tricked Orton and that plan was haulted by Sting! On SmackDown JJ Security had a group of security men and women to keep Randy Orton out of the building. That didn't work out and Orton has been on a RKO spree over the last couple of weeks. While Rollins continues to run away it does remind you of the feud with Punk and Orton from WrestleMania 27, but on a higher scale due to the fact that both of these guys were associated with each other with The Authority for over 5 months last year. Tonight should be interesting just to see if Orton is going to be in a match or not. Will Rollins wrestle? I think tonight you'll see Orton be put in a handicap match wtih Big Show & Kane. Orton will win and then all the Authority will come in and attack Randy Orton and just as Orton takes all the guys out Rollins comes from behind with the briefcase hits him in the back of the head and then gives Orton a Curb Stomp! You put Orton in a vunderable situation and you also put Rollins over on a major show before Mania. Have to give Rollins and Orton a big round of applause for carrying major segments of Raw over the last couple of weeks.

3.) John Cena vs. Rusev

Not even going to give that fake Russian Lawyer any attention in this piece. There's no reason to have one of your best on-air personalities shooting a movie during the road to WrestleMania it's just dumb and not necessary. For what Rusev and John Cena said to each other I enjoyed. Like I've said before not a John Cena fan, but I have alot of respect for him and he's been more enjoyable to watch over the last couple of weeks and I'm not afraid to say that. His promos have been fantastic and this is a simple feud with a simple opponent and that's not taking a dig at Rusev it's showing that less is more. Rusev has been doing a tremendous job as a heel especially with him talking more and getting heat by himself. I'm going to share the interview that John Cena conducted with Michael Cole and I want you guys to listen closely to what he says. What I like about this feud is that I don't know what happens next for John Cena. There's so many options to go with this feud and if John Cena loses maybe we don't see John Cena for awhile. Tonight I think we see Cena get the best of Rusev and hold up the United States Championship. I hope Lana is on the show she's a major assett to Rusev character development and you don't see that from other managers unless your name is Paul Heyman and that's saying something. 

4.) The Undertaker vs. Bray Wyatt + Triple H vs Sting 

It was nice seeing Sting on Raw last week and getting to talk to the WWE Universe. I mention last week we need more to this Triple H and Sting feud. I'm happy he's here and he's my favorite non WWE Superstar of all-time. What's coming out of this Triple H/Sting match? Sting says that he's here to take Hunter down, but if he beats him at WrestleMania and Hunter is on Raw the next night did he really do anything? I heard reports about Sting being in Los Angeles for tonight's Raw and I think he should be there. Tonight I think we do see a in-ring segment with Triple H and Sting and Sting will probably challenge Hunter for his "Authority" in the WWE. I think it would be really interesting if Vince came out on the show tonight and say that "I was the guy that brought Sting to the WWE and you've let me down and I told you to fix this and you didn't so I had to do it myself" BOOM!!!!!!! After that I think it would be important to have Hunter one up Sting before their match at Mania. As far as the Taker/Wyatt match goes I've been really impressed with Bray Wyatt no matter what happens in this match I think Wyatt will be elevated! Tonight is the last night to fight off the rumor that the WWE is holding Taker off until the PPV! I think it would be right to decision to hold Taker from appearing in person, but that doesn't mean you can't have Taker conduct a pre-tape video package where he talks about moving on from losing The Streak and he can talks about his feelings toward Bray Wyatt. They could go big on the hocus pocus stuff especially being at the Staples Center. I'm really interested in seeing what they do with Wyatt on the show tonight.

5.) IC Title + Mania Mid-Card feuds plus Raw matches 

I've been loving what they've been doing with the build towards this Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match. The gaunlet match from SmackDown was one of the best matches I've seen this year and it crazy to think they've been spending an average 30-35 minutes of TV time on the IC Title feud. As far as tonight is concern here's the following the matches that you can see on the show tonight. I think we Daniel Bryan vs Dean Ambrose, Dolph Ziggler vs Luke Harper, and R-Truth vs Stardust and you have Bad News Barrett on the commentary! Tonight you'll probably see AJ Lee vs Brie Bella or you can do this and you can have a Divas Title match between Paige and Nikki Bella and then you have Paige win and after the match you can have The Bella Twins snap and say that they've had enough of diva's like you and being constatnly disrespected by the crowd. After that they can say if you guys beat us we're gone from the WWE for good. We'll probably see more names added to the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal and then obviously for the Tag Team Championship feud you can see Los Matadores and Cesaro/Tyson Kidd vs The Usos and The New Day. 

Before we head out here I wanted to congratulations to Kevin Nash becoming the newest member of the WWE Hall of Fame well deserved. This will probably be my last time on the site before the big show so I wanted to put my predictions for the show.

1.) Dean Ambrose wins the Ladder Match and becomes the new Intercontinental Champion after Sheamus cost Bryan the Ladder Match 

2.) Randy Orton over Seth Rollins 

3.) Cesaro & Kidd retain the Tag Team Championship 

4.) The Miz wins the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal 

5.) AJ Lee & Paige over The Bella Twins 

6.) Sting over Triple H 

7.) Wyatt over Taker

8.) Rusev retains the United States Championship 

9.) Roman Reings wins the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

You can follow me on Twitter @VoiceOfTruth94 

Make sure to check out my WrestleMania preview show this Wednesday on ChicagoLandSportsRadio.com from 10am-2pm CT!

Hope you guys enjoy this piece please feel free to share this piece on all social media platforms and I hope you guys enjoy Raw and WrestleMania.

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 3/16/15

Happy 3:16 day you melee mouth bastards! Give me a "Oh Hell Yeah!" Welcome to this week's Monday Night Raw preview. WWE puts the metal forward on this bumpy ride to WrestleMania 31. We're two weeks away from WrestleMania 31 and I feel like the only person that's excited for this year's Mania and I felt this way last year. What I bring to these Raw previews is a big picture perspective. Last week on Raw we found that three major matches are confirmed for WrestleMania. The Undertaker accepted Bray Wyatt challenge, John Cena force Rusev & Lana to accept his challenge for the United States Championship, and Randy Orton finally turn and destroyed Seth Rollins. Tonight Raw is from Des Moines, Iowa which has been known over the years as one of the most quietest crowds in the WWE Universe. We're 13 days away from WrestleMania and here's five things you can expect to see on tonight's show.

1.) John Cena vs. Rusev 

One of the major feuds that has been gaining my attention on the road to WrestleMania is the feud between John Cena and Rusev! Which is surprising thinking about this feud on paper, but it's not the case because the feud writes itself. The build towards this match has been perfect and honestly as a non Cena fan this is one of the most exciting builds to a John Cena esque WrestleMania match. Last week on Raw Rusev made quick work of #AxelMania which is unfortunate, but Rusev was laid out by former United States Champion John Cena who warned him earlier in the night. There seems to be some tension between Rusev and Lana after Lana accepted John Cena's challenge for WrestleMania last week on Raw. What happens tonight? We know that Rusev will be defending the United States Championship against John Cena at WrestleMania. What can they do to make things this match more relevant then it already is? I think tonight Hulk Hogan needs to come out and say that he's going to be in the corner of John Cena to make sure that we don't have the same finish from FastLane. Will Rusev still be mad at Lana? If Rusev is retaining the championship at Mania I think you can still make him look vunderable on these Raw's. If Cena is winning the championship at Mania I think tonight Rusev MUST lay out John Cena on the Raw's before Mania. Match wise is always hard to figure out cause one week Cena wrestles then he doesn't same goes for Rusev, but this is one of the storylines that I'll be keeping my eye on as far as watching Raw tonight.

2.) Randy Orton vs. Seth Rollins 

Last week on Raw it finally happen. Orton made the face turn that was already three weeks too late, but nonetheless it was effective and very entertaining to watch. I want to show you a clip of the interview from SmackDown where Orton basically laid out the reason behind the build towards this match with him and Seth Rollins. Orton says that he's going to spit in the face of Seth Rollins and challenge him to a match at WrestleMania. I think that match will be made tonight, but Rollins will get his revenge tonight. Expect to see The Authority to deny Orton request and send the hounds towards Orton for defying the Authority! I don't look at dirtsheets and I can tell by studying the tv product where this feud between Rollins and Orton has to go. Either guy can win or lose and they'll won't be effected by it. Tonight Rollins lays out Randy Orton and accepts his challenge and the match will be official.

3.) Triple H vs. Sting 

Have we come to the point where we only care about the stories  that's being said on the mic. I will also be putting the Sting promo in this piece to illustrate my point in this piece. There's "reports" going around about Sting possibly appearing on tonight's Raw. Awesome and if he speaks like the Sting we all know great, but my problem is not about whether his voice is distorted or not, my problem is what's going to come out of this match at WrestleMania. Sting talked about rectifying a wrong in The Authority and that he's been waiting 14 years to put a end to the Game. I think people are worrying to much about what's he saying because we know that he was in TNA during this time last year. This is not a dig or whatever you want to call it at TNA, but we need to put the TNA stuff aside when analyzing the stuff that comes out of either Triple H or Sting's mouth. I want to know what's going to be the aftermath of this feud. Is Sting going to become the GM of Raw? Is Triple H going to lose his "Authority"? Simple questions that I have and that should be addressed on the show tonight if Sting appears on the show. I'm sure Triple H will say if Sting loses he'll never be allowed on WWE Television again, but once again what does Sting get if he beats Triple H?

4.) Roman Reigns Journey 

I'm going to keep this point very short because I think we're a beating a dead horse times a thousand on this topic and this feud between Reigns and Lesnar. I get it! It's the main event of WrestleMania. You don't think that Reigns is ready? I don't think anybody is ever really ready when it's not a real sport? WWE mindset is that hey we can strike when the potential is hot, but the fans don't think he deserves this position due to circumstances that I will never understand because is subjective. Brock is holding the title hostage we don't know if he's going to stay or not, we here about MMA and UFC more than we here about this feud and this match. I have a problem with that. Tonight is simple Reigns go out there and prove your detractors wrong on the mic it's that simple. Have him come out and have a promo with Paul Heyman. Vince stop with the insecurity and scripting his promos. Let the guy come out and be himself. If Reigns is presented like himself then people will latch onto him.

5.) The Undertaker vs. Bray Wyatt + WrestleMania Mid-Card build 

Last week on Raw Undertaker accepted Bray Wyatt challenge for a match at WrestleMania. I think they're going to keep Taker off of TV until WrestleMania and I think that's good because they haven't done that before. Wyatt has been building this feud perfectly and he's showing that he can be one of the best storytellers in the history of wrestling. We know that we'll be getting a promo from Wyatt tonight. As far as what else is going on the card for Mania. I know that AJ Lee & Paige will take on Bella Twins at Mania. Tonight you'll probably see AJ & Paige vs Alicia Fox & Summer Rae. Expecting another fatal four way tag team match for the WWE Tag Team Championship. We'll see The New Day vs The Usos then Los Matadores vs Tyson Kidd & Cesaro. I think we see more build towards the Battle Royal maybe you see Ryback vs Big Show. The IC Title feud has been great so far. I think Truth needs to get off the commentary and fight. Tonight we'll see Truth vs Harper, Ziggler vs Barrett and Stardust vs Daniel Bryan you can have Dean Ambrose on commentary this time.

I want to congratulate the "Living Legend" Larry Zbyzko on becoming the newest member of the WWE Hall of Fame. I know the crowd won't be that hot tonight, but it's Iowa! So I know what I'm expecting to see on tonight's show I'm not asking for a lot if they address all the matches on the card then I'm fine with that. I hope you guys try to enjoy Raw tonight and not over think things let it play out if you don't like it cool, but give it a chance before judging.

You can follow me on Twitter @VoiceOfTruth94

Make sure to check out my wrestling radio show dub "Pro Wrestling Experience" every Wednesday from 10am-1pm CT on Chicagolandsportsradio.com

5 Things To Expect On WWE Monday Night Raw 2/16/15

"Hey, hey, hey. What's going on here?" It's not time for save by the bell, but it's time for this week's Monday Night Raw Preview brought to you by Condo On The Moon's very own Joshua Lopez. It's the go-home show to the WWE Fast Lane PPV. Tensions continue rise as we down a hill to the last stop on the road to WrestleMania this Sunday. We've been on a roll with these previews as this columns are giving a unqiue perspective on the current WWE Creative Team and their plans for editions of Monday Night Raw. A lot of people try to find things to be mad or complain about, but here we take a look at the current storylines and if there's issues we try to turn those negativies to a positive. The American Dream Dusty Rhodes will be on the show and The Nature Boy will be on tonight's show as well. Here's five things to expect on tonight's Monday Night Raw.

1.) Daniel Bryan/Roman Reigns Fiasco 

I don't know about you guys, but I'm at the point where I could care less who wins the Daniel Bryan/Roman Reigns match. Here's a dose of reality, for those saying that the WWE holds Daniel Bryan back you don't know anything about wrestling. Little fun fact for you if a guy was being held back or buried why would WWE have Daniel Bryan compete in a title match in all of the 5 WrestleMania's he competed in. Roman Reigns is not ready, but at the end of the day who is? It's a lose lose situation for whatever type of wrestling fan you are. Don't get me wrong I like both guys and I enjoy the current storyline they're in it's the fans and the mood surrounding this feud that just gets me aggravated. People say that Daniel Bryan deserve his title run, but will people put their money where their mouth is when he's the main event of Mania and main eventing future Raw's and PPV's? Is the YES! Movement about the fans being part of the show or supporting Daniel Bryan for what he stands for? To me the YES! Chant is like the What? Chant. WWE has brought the anything you can know I could do better storyline back with Reigns & Bryan and for what it's worth it's been working so far. I enjoyed their tag team turmoil on SmackDown this past Friday night the fight they had with The Usos was awesome. Tonight will we see possibly Roman Reigns vs Kane, then Daniel Bryan vs. Big Show. You can also see Roman Reigns vs Kane & Big Show and Daniel Bryan vs Seth Rollins and J&J Security. Either way I tonight you will see Daniel Bryan seek his revenge on Roman Reigns for what happen on last week's Raw.

2.) John Cena & Rusev Program

I thought the WWE did a good job with the Rusev & John Cena storyline last week. I thought the video tribute Rusev gave to Cena last week was really funny and effective. I think what's helping this feud right now is not only because it's the perfect WWE esque storyline for both of these guys right now it's the fact that they're taking their time with this and not rushing anything. Last week on Raw we establish why this feud is happening and now it's about who will come out of Fast Lane as WWE United States Champion? Another cool thing with this feud if you will is that we don't really know what the long term plan is for both Cena & Rusev coming out of this feud. Can John Cena really become the US Champion on Sunday? Is this a one off feud? Can Cena put over Rusev? Tonight is going to be interesting because last week Rusev got the best of John Cena and his injured eye, now will the Cenation Leader get the best of the Bulgarian Brute. I think John Cena should take on Luke Harper tonight. Also what if any chance of us seeing the returning Celtic Warrior associate himself with this feud and get back the title he lost or possibly turn heel and go against the guy the left him off Team Cena at Survivor Series. I think tonight you'll probably see Rusev vs. Dolph Ziggler or Ryback.

3.) The Rhodes Family Debacle 

What's more tradition in wrestling new sites? The yearly Carlito & Shelton Benjamin apperance in the Royal Rumble? Or the Cody Rhodes vs Goldust match at WrestleMania? I think we may finally get it and what a perfect time for both of these guys. Reports are coming saying that Goldust will be hanging up the boots after Mania and what a way for him to go out against his younger brother at the grandest stage of them all. Will it be Stardust vs Goldust at FastLane then Cody Rhodes vs Goldust at WrestleMania? I'm really excited to see what goes down between The Rhodes Family on Raw tonight. I think we'll finally have a mid-card feud in-ring segments that's intruging and meaningful. What I think eventually happens is that Dusty will try to play to the crowd a little bit he'll introduce his sons and during the segment Dusty or Goldust will spit out the name Cody and either Stardust will attack Goldust to or knock down his dad and walk away.

4.) The Authority  

I found out that the legendary "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair will be on Monday Night Raw to talk to Triple H about his upcoming confrontation with the vigilante "Sting" at WWE Fast Lane. I think we'll probably see a opening in-ring promo with The Authority where they promote the ppv say it's free you know the usual The Authority stichk and then they'll address what happen on SmackDown with Big Show & Kane and also the Daniel Bryan & Roman Reigns situation. Wonder if this Authority storyline has brought unwaranted heat towards the company because let's say for the casual viewer who tunes into Raw and they see The Authority and people know that Triple H & Stephanie McMahon are actual authority figures it puts a black cloud on what we're watching because is this how they real feel about Daniel Bryan or it's a what's best for the storyline type of thing? Because you watch Raw and then you see The Authority constantly degrading Daniel Bryan and for those who are not die hard wrestling fans they can assume that's how the company feels about Bryan and the character's The Authority don't care about the fans. It's a double eged sword in this reality era, but in today's society people are so insecure and gulliable they see something on television it could be a random match on Raw and they'll believe it's a new storyline or this or that, so it's interesting to see where this Authority storyline goes and how its finishes. As far as tonight is concern I think we'll see the confrantation with Triple H & Flair and then it will be interrupted by a interesting video package from Sting that will get Triple H flustered before their confrantation at Fast Lane

5.) WWE Fast Lane Undercard 

We know that Nikki Bella will defend the WWE Diva's Championship against Paige. Tonight we'll probably see Paige vs. Brie Bella again or her against Alicia Fox and maybe this time we'll see Paige get the best of the Bella Twins. Hopefully tonight they announce that it will be The Usos vs. Tyson Kidd & Cesaro for the WWE Tag Team Championship. Will Dean Ambrose gets his opportunity at the Intercontinental Championship? I think we may also see Dolph Ziggler, Ryback and Erick Rowan vs. Seth Rollins, Kane and Big Show at FastLane due to what happen on Raw last week. Something else maybe for the pre-show you can do a number one contender's match with The Ascension vs. The New Day vs. Miz & Mizdow. That's all I got it's realistic outlooks as to what can happen on the undercard for FastLane.

Follow Josh Lopez on Twitter @VoiceOfTruth94

Enjoy Monday Night Raw everybody

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5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw 1/26/15

Well to everybody that canceled the WWE Network, cool story bro. We'll see you tweeting about #RAW tonight. Point is you want to have your voice heard back up your threats like none of you did last year it's simple as that. Last night was the 28th annual Royal Rumble PPV. Brock Lesnar retained the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in a stellar Triple Threat Match with John Cena & Seth Rollins. Roman Reigns won the Royal Rumble match and the main event of WrestleMania is ready booked, set and stone. Here's five things to expect on the January 26th edition of WWE Monday Night Raw.

1.) Roman Reigns 

Obviously Roman Reigns won the Rumble last night and there's a lot of people mad about it. My point of the view of the finish or just the Rumble match in general. I'm sorry but it's the truth and I understand they're not listening to what the fans want, but that's what you get when you have the Royal Rumble in a smarky crowd. I like Roman Reigns, I don't know how he's being shoved down our throats when he only appears one or two times throughout the show. Was Reigns my pick to win the Royal Rumble, no, but for me as a wrestling analyst I just stay netural in these type of situations it's not about what I want who am I? They made their choice awhile back and we shouldn't be surprised that this happen and even when we complain about the WWE never having a long term outlook on any of these PPV's, but when they have something set in place like they do right for WrestleMania people will still complain about it. It's simple and I understand you can't please anybody anymore so why still do shows? Anyways, as far as tonight is concern if I was Roman Reigns I would go on the turnbuckle and give the entire crowd the middle finger while the crowd is booing him. Roman will probably cut a promo tonight and it's going to be interesting to see how he handles advertisy especially with these type of promos heading towards WrestleMania. I think we'll see Big Show coming out and blaming The Rock for helping Roman winning and say that he deserves to win the Royal Rumble. This will lead to their match at WWE Fast Lane where Reigns will put up his WrestleMania spot on the line to take on the Big Show in some type of a gimmick match. We'll see what happens, but it's sure the "cool" thing to boo Roman Reigns now.

2.) Brock Lesnar 

I earn alot of respect for Brock Lesnar for the performance he put on last night. Brock Lesnar will defend his WWE World Heavyweight Championship against Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 31. Tonight for Monday Night Raw it's going to be interesting to see what happens for two reasons. One because obviously I want and I'm for sure we'll hear Paul Heyman's point of view of Roman Reigns winning the Royal Rumble Match. Secondly I saw Brock Lesnar on the WWE Fast Lane promo package and with this "broken rib" is Brock going to compete at the PPV in Memphis. Will we see Brock Lesnar get confronted by either Seth Rollins or John Cena? Do we actually see a in-ring promo between Roman Reigns & Brock Lesnar. While I don't agree with having a part-time performer main eventing Mania as champion and leaving the WWE the next day, you can't deny the pure natural talent that Brock Lesnar possesss. Expect a perfect promo from the one and only Paul Heyman.

3.) Seth Rollins

If there was anybody that believes that Seth Rollins is not a quality WWE main event star, I don't know what to tell you bro. I was sure as hell sold on Seth Rollins last night. He's the real deal and I will be ultimately shocked if by the end of the year, Seth Rollins doesn't have at least ONE title reign. It's going to be interesting to see what Seth Rollins does at WrestleMania. There's been many of rumors about Randy Orton making his return to the WWE. Yet we don't see him. What's taking so long? You're missing out on a potential great feud by continuing to drag out the Randy Orton return. It makes not only is Sting looking to own up The Authority, Orton is looking for revenge for The Authority to take him out of action for almost four months. I think we'll also see a in-ring promo from The Authority tonight I wouldn't be shocked by that and I actually condone that because we do have to hear from Triple H and his thoughts about guys like Rock and or Sting coming back and getting in the way of all of The Authority winning titles, rumbles, and stipulation matches etc. I think we'll see either Seth Rollins vs. Dolph Ziggler or Seth Rollins vs. Daniel Bryan and Randy Orton will make his return tonight.

4.) John Cena 

I'm not a John Cena fan, but I sure as hell do respect that guy. You can say that he's a terrible actor, wrestler or whatever, but when you see matches like that Triple Threat Match as much as Rollins & Lesnar deserve credit for making this awesome, John Cena also deserve as much praise for that match. John Cena had a face-to-face confrontation on the Royal Rumble post show with Rusev. Looking at that stare down I'm actually ok with seeing John Cena vs. Rusev. You're going to have to find a way to take the title away from Rusev because I don't know how John Cena goes from one year taking on Bray Wyatt then the next year taking on Rusev in a United States Championship Match. I hope he does take this feud seriously instead of doing childish jokes towards Lana & Rusev. I think we can possibly see a brawl between Rusev & John Cena. At the same time we don't have to rush into that program who knows maybe somebody comes out of no where and takes on John Cena for a match at Fast Lane. Do you want to see Rusev vs John Cena at Fast Lane or WrestleMania? I'll let you guys answer that question down below.

5.) The Authority + Daniel Bryan 

So are we going down the same path we did last year with WrestleMania? Daniel Bryan was in the Royal Rumble, but he didn't win the Royal Rumble Match. I'm happy that Bryan is back and he'll eventually get the title back, I just wondering what they're going to do with him as we're on the Road to WrestleMania. I don't think it's going to be Bray Wyatt vs. Daniel Bryan at WrestleMania due to Bray eliminating Bryan, but I could see that match happening at WWE Fast Lane. As far as The Authority is concern like I said earlier I would like to see Triple H talk about The Rock & Sting situations. We'll find out what they think about Reigns winning the Royal Rumble. Do we see Rowan, Ziggler & Ryback punished on Raw for coming back we'll see, it's a big night for The Authority they need to rebound from a rough night last night.

By the way congratulations to Arnold Schwarznegger who announces on TMZ that he will be the celebrity inductee in the 2015 WWE Hall of Fame.

Follow Me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

5 Things To Expect on WWE Monday Night Raw

"WELCOME TO MONDAY NIGHT WRAW!"~ Vince McMahon. It's the final Monday Night Raw of the year coming from Washington D.C. for the third straight year. You can expect another quiet crowd tonight because the Washington crowd is not that good whatsoever and if you need example go-ahead look at the go-home show to WrestleMania 29 on the WWE Network. The once in while appearing WWE World Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar will bless us with his pressence tonight. Also one of the greatest tag teams in professional wrestling history Edge & Christian will be hosting Monday Night Raw. I think tonight's show is very important for the WWE as a whole and for the build towards the Royal Rumble PPV. Here's five things to expect on the 12/29/14 edition of WWE Monday Night Raw.

1.) Edge & Christian 

You think you me? I always enjoyed that theme song. Here's a idea to start Raw tonight. Edge & Christian do their entrance coming through the crowd or they can go old school and come up through the stage with The Brood music. It's going to be nice to see Edge & Christian especially Edge since he's on of those legends that rarely comes on the show as often as the other contracted WWE Legends. It's been the running trend lately Seth Rollins will come out and interrupt E & C in-ring promo and whine and complain about The Authority no longer being in power. Who knows maybe we'll see some of those silly hats their wore during the Attitude Era or they'll bring back the kazoos. Either way it will nice to see both Edge & Christian and tonight should be a fun night.

2.) The Ascension 

They're coming the fiery and powerful tag team from WWE NXT will make their main roster debuts TONIGHT on RAW. Who will be the first casualty for The Ascension? The video vigentte for The Ascension haven't been earth shattering to be completely honest with you, but I'm really looking forward to seeing The Ascension tonight because I'm a big fan of their tag team. Alot of people are clamoring for NXT Superstars to come up on the main roster and tonight and heading towards 2015 you'll see change in the WWE presentation I totally believe that and it starts with The Ascension tonight.

3.) Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena III 

The anticipated final battle between Brock Lesnar and John Cena will come to a head at the Royal Rumble. Brock Lesnar laid out John Cena during his Steel Cage Match with Seth Rollins a couple weeks ago. There's some storyline question that I have with this pairing heading towards the Royal Rumble. Ok Brock is back. Why? All we knew about Brock Lesnar before he became the WWE Champion is that he was "Plan C" for The Authority to take the title away from John Cena. Cena is the only person that holds the power to bring The Authority back. There needs to be a in-ring promo between John Cena & Paul Heyman tonight and it will be interesting to see if Paul Heyman brings up that very association Lesnar & The Authority had before they lost their power at Survivor Series. How do you bring The Authority back? Brock will come out during the show who knows maybe John & Brock have a full out brawl in the same building they had a bloody fist fight in 2012.

4.) Bad News Barrett 

I think it should be noted that tonight WWE is having a "WWE LIVE" show in Richmond, Virginia. Roman Reigns, Dean Ambrose, Bray Wyatt are advertised for this very show. There's star power left out of this show. We have Brock Lesnar, Edge & Christian and The Ascension on the show tonight, but something to really spice things especially with it being the final of Raw of the year we see the return of BNB! Bad News Barrett has been out with a shoulder injury for six months and I think it's the perfect night for him to come back. Dolph Ziggler is the right guy for Barrett to feud with. Alot of people are riding the wave of momentum of Dolph Ziggler, but "I'm afraid I've got some bad news!" Ziggler will have to deal with a dose of reality and a feud between Ziggler & Barrett to start 2015 is the right way to go for the WWE.

5.) Randy Orton? 

It's time! I'm keeping this one short and sweet. Randy Orton will be make his WWE return tonight and will seek his revenge on Seth Rollins & JJ Security. Calling it right now.

Follow Me on Twitter @JoshLopezCSR

Summerslam: A.J vs Paige

The Paige and A.J feud as far as I am concerned has failed to live up to the mass amount of hype people had for it when it started. This whole pretending to be friends and actually enemies this was and is ridiculous. That said Paige going heel was badly required. It has really been revitalization her and almost gave her a do-over from her original debut as babyface that was awful. A.J on the other hand is not exactly looking like much of a baby face in her actions. In the end, it doesn’t matter much.

This feud has been badly overshadowed by the Brie and Stephanie feud and despite being for the title I would bet they do not get as much match time as Steph and Brie match is given. Should be a better match with these two time restraints or not. These two are starting to develop some chemistry to some extent.

Why I feel A.J is on a different level and deserves to keep her championship. I feel for the sake of extending the feud Paige is going to win the title. I can’t see anyone positioned to jump into this feud for the Diva’s Championship.

Another thing this feud has lacked is time invested in it is build that again is because of all the time being invested in Stephanie and Brie. Second fiddle all around is this feud and it should not be in one sense being for the title. It is easy to understand why it has been with the return to the ring of Stephanie McMahon who has not wrestled in a WWE ring in over a decade.

I still think that at the end of the day we could see Stephanie to return to face A.J Lee in a match that takes place at Wrestlemania. It makes a lot of sense if WWE is willing to make it happen.

In terms of the Diva’s Title, it is not looking good being booked below Steph but it is only for one show and it understandable.

This match wise has the chance to be the best of the encounters between Paige and A.J where neither girl should have to hold back for storyline purposes and can just go at it. If this is not the best women’s in-ring match of the night it would be quite a surprise but fans are not as invested as they are in the Steph and Brie feud even despite the bad booking on Monday.

So that is it will finish up are Summerslam Previews before Sundays show.

Check out the rest of our In-Depth Summerslam previews so far: 

Stephanie vs Brie     

Dean Ambrose vs Seth Rollins   

The Miz vs Dolph Ziggler   

Jericho vs Bray Wyatt 

Swagger vs Rusev 

 

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